Regional News
At least 12 soldiers killed in Boko Haram attacks on Nigeria military base
More than a dozen soldiers were killed in multiple attacks on a military base in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno state, said local and military sources. The terrorists attacked the base in the remote town of Kareto in the Mobbar Local Government Area on Tuesday with improvised explosives and shot at it from different directions, residents told Anadolu. Heavy shooting was heard from the base as troops engaged Boko Haram terror group in a gun battle, residents said.
Cameroon: FECAFOOT Sacks SG For ‘Lack Of Responsiveness’ – Journal du Cameroun
Strong decisions were expected following the meeting of the FECAFOOT Executive Committee (Comex). And they were not long in coming. Right from the start, the Comex decided to revoke the licence of the National Union of Cameroonian Footballers, led by Geremi Sorel Njitap. The decision was taken unanimously by the Cameroon Football Federation. The Comex decided to replace SYNAFOC by the Cameroon Footballers’ Association, led by Lucien Metomo.
Defence Headquarters confirms killing of 5 soldiers in Borno
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists ambushed troops conducting stabilization operations in Gubio Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, leading to a heavy gunfight. In the aftermath of the attack, five soldiers were killed, 10 were wounded, and four others were reported missing. However, over 30 terrorists were neutralized, with several others escaping with bullet wounds.
Cameroon-Far North : Two Cholera Cases Confirmed In Far North – Journal du Cameroun
The Far North region, already weakened by humanitarian crises and armed conflict, is facing a new health threat. Health officials have just confirmed two new cases of cholera, reigniting fears of a large-scale epidemic. The alert was reportedly triggered after a family of four was hospitalised with severe diarrhoea in the Far North region on November 8. Laboratory tests confirmed two cases of cholera, underscoring the need for a rapid response to this new epidemic.
Mali: Civilian PM sacked after criticizing junta, cabinet dismissed | Africanews
Mali’s Prime Minister Choguel Maiga was sacked on Wednesday (Nov. 20). A decree was read on national television by the secretary-general of the presidency. Alfouseyni Diawara read the 3-article text signed by the president of the transition Gel Assimi Goïta.
The Minister of Secondary Education, Pr Pauline Nalova Lyonga, says she is surprised to see an elected official “freely spreading misinformation”. She said this in a letter to him. The member of the government reminded the mayor of Ngoumou, Jean-Baptiste Martin Amvouna Atemengue, that “staff costs represent 87% of the 539.142 billion CFAF budget for 2024”.
Mali: Former al-Qaida-linked police chief sentenced to 10 years for war crimes | Africanews T
he International Criminal Court (ICC) has sentenced Al-Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz Ag Mohamed Ag Mahmoud, the former head of the Islamic police in Timbuktu, Mali, to 10 years in prison for war crimes. Prosecutors accused Al-Hassan, 47, of leading a “reign of terror” after the al-Qaeda-linked Ansar Dine group seized the historic city in 2012. He was found guilty of torture, overseeing public amputations, and organizing brutal floggings, including of children.
COP29: Delegates renegotiate new compensation for developing nations | Africanews
Money is the key issue at the United Nations climate talks in Baku, Azerbaijan, where negotiators are working on a new amount for developing nations to transition to clean energy, adapt to climate change and deal with weather disasters. Experts put the need close to $1 trillion, while developing nations have said they’ll need $1.3 trillion in climate finance. But negotiators are talking about different types of money as well as amounts, involving a complex package of grants, loans and private investment.
Cameroon : Government Presents 10 Bills To Parliament – Journal du Cameroun
The day after the opening plenary session of the November parliamentary session, the Conference of Presidents of the National Assembly received 10 bills for consideration. The various texts cover a wide range of areas concerning the life of the nation and cooperation with friendly countries. The texts were received during a meeting of the Conference of Presidents chaired by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Cavaye Yeguie Djibril. MPs will examine the various draft laws as part of their work.
Ghana overtakes Nigeria in U.S. visa overstay rates, new report reveals | Africanews
A newly released report from the U.S. government highlights a notable shift in visa overstay patterns, showing Ghana surpassing Nigeria in the misuse of B1/B2 and F, M, and J non-immigrant visas between October 2022 and September 2023. The comprehensive analysis sheds light on individuals who remained in the United States beyond their authorized stay without a recorded departure or an approved visa extension.
Nigeria begins delayed mpox vaccination programme | Reuters
ABUJA, Nov 18 (Reuters) – Nigeria started mpox vaccinations on Monday, administering shots to health workers and people with weak immune systems at hospitals in the capital Abuja, more than a month after the programme was scheduled to start. Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria received its first batch of 10,000 doses of the mpox vaccine from the United States in August after the World Health Organisation declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.
Section of Malian military calls for the resignation of the PM | Africanews
A section of the Malian military known as the Collective of military defense (CDM) is accusing Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga of “treason” and “denunciation” following his criticism of the ruling generals. The group, linked to the junta Assimi Goita is demanding Maïga’s resignation within 72 hours, calling his actions “high treason.” This demand is significant, as the CDM’s previous calls have often been heeded by the junta.
Abuja festival focuses on African culture in the digital age | Africanews
The three-day inaugural Abuja International Poetry Festival took place last week in various venues across the Nigerian capital. It was a cultural melting pot for poets, dreamers, intellectuals, and adventurers. Under the theme “Afro Futurism and Digital Culture”, it looked at what it means to be an African poet in today’s world. Organised by Nasara Creative in partnership with others, it aimed to showcase how “magic” happens where art and technology intersect. “We are just trying to bridge African knowledge and experience, African culture, and the future. So this is Africa, where do you want to go and how can we use AI to make that journey better,” said festival founder, Bash Amuneni.
Nigeria’s inflation rate surges as food prices escalate | Africanews
Nigeria’s inflation rate surged to 33.9% in October driven by high food prices, official figures showed. In September, the rate stood at 32.70%. A report by the National Bureau of Statistics showed food inflation nearly touched 40% year-on-year in October from 37.77%. The jump was attributed to a steep rise in the prices of staples such as maize, rice and cooking oil. Prices increases could trigger more intervention the central bank, which has already hiked interest rates five times this year in a bid to get inflation under control.
Hisbah destroys 170 bottles of alcohol in Yobe – Daily Trust
The Yobe State Hisbah Board has destroyed over 170 bottles of alcohol worth N450,000 in the state. City & Crime learnt that the bottles were confiscated at one of the hotels in Gashua town, the headquarters of Bade Local Government Area. The Chairman of Bade LGA, Ibrahim Babagana Yurema, who led the destruction, said the council would flush out sellers, traders and consumers of alcohol in the area.
CATAI empowers youths to shape Borno’s development plan – Yerwa Express News
The Center for Advocacy Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), a youth-led NGO funded by ActionAid Nigeria with support from ActionAid Denmark, has organized a validation workshop to empower Borno youth to actively participate in shaping the state’s development plan. The CATAI’s Strategic Partnership Agreement SPA II project brings together diverse stakeholders, including government ministries, youth groups, civil society organizations, and parliamentary.
EFCC dismisses 2 staff over corruption allegations – Yerwa Express News
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, on Monday, said two of the agency’s staff members were, recently, dismissed over allegation of corruption. Mr Olukoyede disclosed this during the opening of the 6th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference organised by the Rule of Law Development Foundation in Abuja.
Several injured as secondary school students clash in Kwara – Daily Trust
Several students have reportedly been injured following a clash between students of two secondary schools in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital. The fracas, which occurred on Monday, reportedly left more than 10 students injured in the process. According to a witness, the fight started around 11 am when some students of Government High School clashed with Government Day Secondary School, both in Adeta area over a previous disagreement.
Africans push food systems and climate justice at Cop29 – Spotlight on Africa
This week’s Spotlight on Africa dives into Cop29’s critical discussions on climate change – focusing on food systems, green energy funding and who should pay for climate disasters. With talks underway in Baku, Azerbaijan, negotiators and experts are grappling with solutions to the growing crisis.
Mental health awareness still a growing concern – Daily Trust
In a society long steeped in stigma and misconceptions about mental health, Nigeria is beginning to experience a much-needed shift in attitude and awareness. Mental health challenges are no longer whispered about behind closed doors but are gradually becoming a subject of national discourse. Yet, the road to widespread understanding and effective solutions remains fraught with challenges.
At least 50 insurgents killed, seven Nigerian officers missing after convoy attack – Reuters.com
ABUJA, Nov 20 (Reuters) – At least 50 Boko Haram fighters were killed on Tuesday and seven members of Nigeria’s infrastructure security force were missing following an insurgent ambush on a convoy monitoring the country’s power grid installations, a spokesperson said. Boko Haram, which has waged an insurgency for 15 years mainly in the northeast, has been weakened by the military and internal fighting but remains a threat as it makes deadly attacks against civilians and government targets.
FCT minister tasks Africans on girl-child education – Daily Trust
The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmud, has urged Africans to adopt a culture of continuous learning and promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for girls to bridge critical skill gaps. Speaking at the 10th Biennial International Seminar on Management Development for Women in Africa, held at Nassarawa State University, the minister noted that investing in girls’ education and prioritizing education at all levels is crucial to unlocking African women’s potential.
Child mortality: Nasarawa loses 143 under-fives, reproductive women – Daily Trust
No fewer than 143 children under the age of five and women of reproductive age have died across 12 communities in 23 local government areas of Nasarawa State. Barr. Patricia Kupuchi, Federal Commissioner in the National Population Commission in Benue State disclosed this during a press conference to launch the 2024 VASA study in Lafia, Nasarawa State capital, on Tuesday.
‘Terrorists using girls as suicide bombers, sex slaves‘ – Daily Trust
The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on Wednesday, revealed how young girls are being used in suicide missions and exploited as sex slaves by terrorist groups wreaking havoc in various parts of the country. This is just as the United Nations sought the establishment of a trust fund for the victims of terrorism and violent extremism, saying it would help in empowering and supporting the victims and survivors.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has said the trillions of dollars requested by Africa for climate change action is not just a plea for philanthropy.
“This is not charity; it is about justice,” he said at the ongoing United Nations Climate Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. For the past week, over 60.000 delegates from all over the world have been meeting in Baku to discuss the challenges of climate change and find solutions to address its impacts on people and communities worldwide.
NIGERIA DAILY: Why 25 People Died From Gastroenteritis In Sokoto – Daily Trust
In the last few months, gastroenteritis has claimed the lives of 25 people across 18 local government areas of Sokoto State, leaving families in a state of mourning and raising serious concerns about sanitation, healthcare access, and public health education.
PPDC Unveils Court Management Technology to Improve Justice Delivery in Nigeria – HumAngle The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) re-introduced its Court Administration and Case Management (CACM) technology on Tuesday, Nov. 19, during a ‘Access to Justice’ Parley in Abuja, North-central Nigeria. The initiative, already deployed in six states, including Adamawa, Kaduna, Plateau, and Nasarawa, aims to revolutionise Nigeria’s judicial system by addressing procedural delays and enhancing efficiency.
IGP confirms arrest of suspects connected to murder of 9 policemen in Delta – PRNigeria News
IGP confirms arrest of suspects connected to murder of 9 policemen in Delta The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday confirmed the arrest of the gunmen responsible for the murder of over nine police officers in Delta State. Egbetokun disclosed this during a visit to the Delta State Police Command Headquarters in Asaba, the state capital, where he addressed officers and commended their efforts in apprehending the suspects.
Mali’s junta appoints military general as new prime minister | Africanews
Mali’s ruling junta on Thursday appointed a new prime minister from within its military ranks, a day after dismissing the civilian prime minister who had openly criticized the regime. The appointment further consolidates power in the hands of the military, which has governed Mali since seizing power in a 2020 coup, followed by a second coup in 2021. On Wednesday, civilian prime minister Choguel Maïga was removed from office after criticizing the junta for delaying the presidential election originally scheduled for 2024. His dismissal was announced in a presidential decree issued by Gen. Assimi Goïta, Mali’s military leader, and read on the state broadcaster, ORTM. On Thursday, Gen. Abdoulaye Maïga was named as his replacement, according to Alfouseyni Diawara, secretary general of the Malian presidency. The two Maïgas are not related.
‘Why gender-based violence persists in Nigeria’ – Daily Trust
Global Rights and The Kukah Centre (TKC) said the persistence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria is attributed to a lack of dynamic and holistic approaches to address its root causes. Speaking at a capacity-building programme on “GBV Community Prevention and Response” in Abuja, Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, Executive Director of TKC, highlighted the limitations of past efforts.
After missing school due to extreme heat, African children push for climate action | Reuters
Children from East Africa, where heatwaves and floods have shuttered schools in recent months, are pushing for world leaders to protect their education – and their future – at the United Nations COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan. Siama, 17, from South Sudan, missed two weeks of school in April when temperatures surged to 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit). “Our country is a developing country so we do not have climate-resilient buildings … and do not have ACs in school,” she said.
Nigeria inflation rises for second month, spurred by food | Reuters
Nigeria’s inflation rate rose for the second straight month in October, advancing to 33.88% in annual terms (NGCPIY=ECI), opens new tab from 32.70% in September mainly due to higher food prices, official data showed on Friday. Inflation quickened sharply in the second half of last year after President Bola Tinubu devalued the country’s naira currency and cut subsidies to try to lift economic growth and shore up public finances.
Resolute Mining’s CEO and two executives released by Mali government | Reuters
Australia’s Resolute Mining (RSG.AX), opens new tab said on Thursday its CEO Terence Holohan and two other employees, who were detained by the Mali government earlier this month, have been released from the country. Resolute’s CEO and two executives were detained in Mali’s capital Bamako to hold discussions with mining and tax authorities regarding general activities related to the company’s business practices, it said earlier this month.
Peace and Security
Niger: Conference in solidarity with the Alliance of Sahel States | Africanews
People have been gathering in Niger for a conference in solidarity with the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS), made up of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The Conference of Solidarity with the People of the Sahel aims to provide support for the countries which have been cut off from much of the international community following recent coups. An economic and defence confederation, the ASS was formed in September last year following the Nigerien crisis in which West African political bloc, ECOWAS threatened to intervene. The Sahel solidarity movement is also supported by popular organisations in neighbouring Benin and Ghana.
UN seeks establishment of Trust Fund for victims of terrorism – Daily Trust
The United Nations has called for the establishment of Trust Fund for the victims of terrorism and violent extremism to empower and support the survivors. According to the international organisation, the activities of Boko Haram terrorists and other violent extremists have caused hardship, displacement and deaths of thousands of persons. The Director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, Mauro Miedico, stated this on Wednesday at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Abuja, during the launch of the model legislative provisions.
Nigeria and India pledge to strengthen defence, trade, development ties | Africanews
Nigeria and India have pledged to strengthen ties between the two countries during a meeting at which they also agreed on more support for Global South nations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja on Saturday, the first Indian premier to visit Nigeria in 17 years, following an invitation by President Bola Tinubu. The two leaders spoke of a new chapter in their strategic partnerships in the areas of defence, energy, technology, trade, and development.
COP 29: Nigeria strengthens ties with China on global climate action – Daily Trust
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of the federal government with the People’s Republic of China. The MOU aims to adopt and accelerate climate action through innovative solutions, mutual cooperation, and shared expertise in combating environmental challenges.
Senegal to host 2025 Summit of the Africa Food Systems Forum – Daily Trust
Senegal has been selected as the host country for the world-class Africa Food Systems (AFS) Forum 2025 Summit, the first time ever the country is hosting the annual summit. The upcoming summit is expected to drive significant advancements in food systems across Africa, building on the momentum from previous forums and setting even bolder commitments that will transform the continent’s food systems.
Niger: Thousands march in Niamey to denounce “destabilization plots” | Africanews
Thousands of Nigeriens marched Saturday (Nov. 16) in the streets of Niamey in support of the ruling CNSP and to denounce foreign destabilization attempts. A coalition of civil society organizations had called for a protest after authorities said they arrested a French ‘spy’. Many protesters also voiced their support of Burkinabe and Malian authorities. Niger with these two countries form the Alliance of Sahel States or AES. “On the 17th of September, I was in Bamako when they tried to destabilize Mali [Editor’s Note: a deadly terror attack shook Mali’s capital on that day]. But that was not enough for them, they tried to destabilize Ibrahim Traoré in Burna Faso. That is why we are sending a strong message to all those imperialists. Know that we are standing by our military. We are with our security forces,” Mohamed said.
Nigeria and India agree deeper ties in maritime security, counter-terrorism | Reuters
Nigeria and India on Sunday agreed to deepen collaboration in maritime security, intelligence and counter-terrorism during a state visit to the West African country by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi is the first Indian premier to visit Nigeria in 17 years after an invitation by President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking investments from some of the world’s biggest economies.
14 herders arrested for violating trans-humance ban in Adamawa – Daily Trust
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 14 suspected herders for violating the Executive Order banning transhumance movement across Adamawa State. According to a statement by DSC Nyako Amidu Baba, the CDPRO Adamawa State Command, the operation was carried out by the Hong Divisional Office of NSCDC in collaboration with other sister security agencies.
US Trains Cameroonian Forces to Curb Incessant IED Attacks by Armed Groups – HumAngle
The United States government has trained security operatives in Cameroon to curb the threats of improvised explosive devices (IED) used by Boko Haram terrorists in the country’s Extreme North Region and the Anglophone separatists in the Northwest and the Southwest. The five-day training, which began on Nov. 15, is aimed at assisting the forces in their fights against insurgents deploying IEDs to terrorise local residents and security agents.
Lakurawa Terrorists’ Threat Amid Information Mismanagement, by Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi – PRNigeria News
The emergence of the “Lakurawa” terror group in Northwestern Nigeria has added a new layer to the country’s complex security challenges, as these militants strengthen their foothold across communities in Kebbi and Sokoto states. The recent disclosure by the Defence and Force Headquarters, which “formally” recognized Lakurawa as a terror organization, not only introduced the group to many Nigerians but also highlighted the potential dangers of mishandling information about such threats.
Troops Disrupt Cross-Border Drug Syndicate in Ogun – PRNigeria News
The troops of 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) have dealt a significant blow to the activities of a transborder drug trafficking syndicate operating in Ogun State. The troops achieved this feat after intercepting a Mitsubishi truck conveying large quantities of high-grade Indian Hemp at the Balogun checkpoint, Ado-Odo in Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, along the Nigeria – Benin Republic border.
Ag COAS Hands Over Infantry Corps Command, Pledges Troops’ Welfare – PRNigeria News
The Acting Chief of Army Staff (Ag COAS) Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has promised to prioritise the welfare of troops of the Nigerian Army(NA) as well as the protection of Nigeria and Nigerians. The Ag COAS made these remarks on Wednesday 20 November 2024, during the official handing over of the Infantry Corps to his successor Major General Abdulkalifa Ibrahim in a regimented ceremony at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Jaji, Kaduna State.
Nigerian govt earmarks N112bn to safeguard schools in 3 years — Minister – Yerwa Express News The Federal Government has allocated more than N112 billion to ensure safety and inclusive spaces for children in the next three years. The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, made this known in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday to commemorate the 2024 World Children’s Day with the theme “Advancing Children’s Rights for a Sustainable Future.” The World Children’s Day is UNICEF’s global day of action for children and children.
Nigerian Navy destroys 23 illegal refinery sites in October – Yerwa Express News
The Nigerian Navy says its units under the auspices of Operation DELTA SANITY, successfully uncovered and destroyed 23 Illegal Refinery Sites and recovered large quantity of stolen crude oil in October. This is contained in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ghana reconstructs demolished Nigerian property in Accra – Daily Trust
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Wednesday the receipt of a reconstructed building belonging to Nigeria’s High Commission in Accra, Ghana. The property was previously demolished by Ghanaian authorities, an incident that almost escalated into a diplomatic dispute between the two nations. However, after a series of high-level discussions, the Government of Ghana committed to rebuilding the four-bedroom block.
Insecurity: We must educate our people on self-defence –ACF – Daily Trust
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has says there is a need for public awareness to educate the people on the importance of self-defence in the North due to the prevailing insecurity.
Speaking in his opening remarks at the ACF National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Wednesday, the ACF Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address the deteriorating situation.
Late Sen. Ubah made N50m secret donation during B/Haram attack on Borno — Shettima – Daily Trust
Vice President Kashim Shettima has disclosed that the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah had during one of the Boko Haram attacks on Borno State, made a donation of N50 million into his account and asked him not to make it public. Shettima spoke Tuesday during a valedictory session organised by the Senate to honour the late Senator (APC, Anambra South) who died on July 26, 2024, at the age of 52.
Jigawa tanker explosion: 209 confirmed dead as probe committee submits report – Daily Trust Chairman of the Investigation Committee on the tanker fire incident in Majia, Jigawa State, DIG Hafizu Muhammad Inuwa (Retd) has presented its findings to Governor Umar Namadi. This is just 209 persons were confirmed dead in the fire incident that occurred on October 14, 2024. The committee included government officials, security representatives, civil society organisations, and community leaders. Inuwa stated that the primary objectives of the investigation were to identify both the remote and immediate causes of the fire, assess the damage and make recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
Despite an official ban on his activities, a controversial cleric in Niger State, North-central Nigeria, has publicly vowed to continue preaching extremist ideologies similar to that of jihadists, raising concerns about the potential spread of his radical views in the region.
Senate asks Nigerian military to end Lakurawa terror group’s activities
The Senate on Wednesday urged the Nigerian Army to end the activities of the Lakurawa terror group in Kebbi and Sokoto states in the North-west region. The upper chamber also demanded that relief materials be distributed to survivors of the attacks carried out by the terror group to cushion their sufferings.
Humanitarian
N5 billion pledges remain unfulfilled as relief distribution ends
Over two months after an outpouring of financial pledges to support relief efforts in the wake of the devastating floods that struck Nigeria’s northeastern Borno State in September, officials have told PREMIUM TIMES that some donors have yet to fulfil their commitments. The floods damaged or destroyed thousands of homes and large swaths of farmland, roads, and other critical infrastructure.
Single mother struggles to feed family amidst cost-of-living crisis
Suliyat Abdulrasaq, 42, lost her husband two years ago. Her petty pepper-grinding business in the Kurudu area of Abuja is what she uses to feed herself and her three surviving children. However, the cost-of-living crisis caused by the Tinubu administration’s policies has made life difficult for Mrs Abdulrasaq. I have not sent money to my eldest daughter, who is schooling in Nasarawa, in six months, she told PREMIUM TIMES.
Mobilization and economic development
EU pledges $96M loan to Cameroon to boost infrastructure | Africanews
The European Union pledged Tuesday to lend 91 million euros ($96 million) to Cameroon over the next three years to boost the West African country’s infrastructure and attract foreign investment. The loan was announced during a meeting between Cameroonian government ministers and an EU representative in Cameroon’s capital, Yaounde.
Mali secures $160m settlement from Resolute Mining in tax dispute | Africanews
Australian gold miner Resolute Mining has agreed to pay Mali’s military-led government $160 million (£126m) to resolve a tax dispute, following the detention of the company’s British CEO and two colleagues. The trio, including CEO Terry Holohan, were reportedly arrested 10 days ago while traveling to the capital, Bamako, for what they had anticipated would be routine discussions
ICPC tracks N610bn constituency projects in 21 states, FCT – Yerwa Express News
The Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC, has kicked off the 7th phase of the constituency and executive projects tracking exercise involving 1,500 schemes valued N610 billion. Demola Bakare, the Spokesperson for the ICPC, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
Naira appreciates by 0.67% against dollar at official market – Yerwa Express News
The naira appreciated on Tuesday at the official market, trading at N1,678.93 against the dollar and recovering from a three-day trading loss. Data from the official trading platform of the FMDQ Exchange, revealed that the Naira gained N11.44. This represents a 0.67 per cent gain when compared to the previous trading date on Monday when it exchanged at N1,690.37 to a dollar.
Nigerian govt to establish national youth development bank – Yerwa Express News
The Federal Government on Tuesday revealed plan to establish a National Youth Development Bank and a Youth Data Bank. President Bola Tinubu, represented by his vice, Kashim Shettima, disclosed this at a Stakeholders Roundtable on Northern Youth Development organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, in Abuja, The President described the banks as crucial tools for “providing financial and informational support to young Nigerians.”
Reps ask DisCos to raise investment to N500bn or exit – Daily Trust
The House of Representatives on Wednesday called for a minimum of N500 billion recapitalisation threshold for the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) in the country if they must remain in business. The call is coming amidst concerns that a number of the distribution companies in the country have low financial capacity to make the necessary investments in power infrastructure for efficient service delivery.
Travel agents kick against sale of tickets in dollars, petition NCAA – Daily Trust
The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) has stated that some foreign airlines are still selling their tickets in dollars. It has however petitioned the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to address the issue, insisting this was against the local law, which forbids dealing with foreign currencies for local transactions. Daily Trust reports that Section 20(1) of the CBN Act 2007 states that the Naira is the sole legal tender in Nigeria. Section 20(5) states that it is an offense to refuse the Naira as a means of payment.
Challenges of fighting corruption in Nigeria – Daily Trust
Corruption in Nigeria has long been a significant impediment to national development. From mismanaged public funds to brazen embezzlement by government officials, its effects are felt across all sectors of society. Despite successive governments’ promises to root it out, the battle against corruption continues to yield mixed results, leaving citizens frustrated and disillusioned.
Economic challenge has pushed 130m people into poverty – SMEDAN – Daily Trust
The economic challenge being faced in the country has pushed over 130 million people into the circle of poverty in Nigeria, the Head, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), Kaduna office, Alhaji Badamasi Barau, has said. Presenting a paper at the 21st Productivity Day organised by the National Productivity Centre (NPC), Kaduna, he urged people to be more productive in their daily activities to get over the economic hardship.
Nigeria wants term buyers for new Utapate crude, seeks to double output | Reuters
Nigeria is seeking term customers for its new crude oil grade Utapate and is aiming to double output by the end of 2025 from 40,000 barrels per day, state-owned NNPC and venture partner Natural Oilfield Services said at the grade’s official launch. The launch is part of Nigeria’s push to boost its oil production, which has long been hindered by unrest and crude theft, despite the West African producer being a part of an ongoing OPEC+ production cut pact.
Nigeria plans $28 bln spending for 2025 budget, minister says | Reuters
Nigeria plans 47 trillion naira ($28.18 billion) spending for its 2025 budget, using an assumption of an oil price of $75 per barrel and target production of 2 million barrels per day, the country’s budget minister said on Thursday. The budget includes a deficit of 13.8 trillion naira, or 3.87% of estimated GDP, Atiku Bagudu told reporters after a cabinet meeting in Abuja. The 2025 budget also includes a forecast exchange rate to the U.S. dollar at 1,400 naira, stronger than its official closing rate of 1,655 naira on Thursday.
South Africa’s MTN service revenue falls 18.5% in Q3 | Reuters
Africa’s biggest telecoms operator MTN Group (MTNJ.J), opens new tab reported on Thursday an 18.5% fall in service revenue in the third quarter ended Sept. 30, hit by the devaluation of the Nigerian naira and operational challenges in Sudan. MTN, with 288 million subscribers in 17 markets across Africa, said its group service revenue fell to 127.4 billion rand ($6.99 billion) from 156.3 billion rand in the same quarter last year.
Nigeria’s NNPC signs 10-year gas sale deal with Dangote Refinery | Reuters
Nigeria’s state oil firm, NNPC Ltd said on Wednesday one of its subsidiaries has agreed to supply 100 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to the Dangote oil refinery for the next 10 years. Financial details were not disclosed. Under the agreement, NNPC Gas Marketing Limited will supply the refinery built by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote in Lagos with natural gas for power generation and feedstock. The contract has options for renewal and additional supply.